WHAT THE COURSE ENTAILS AND EXAM DETAILS

Phase 2 of the Air Assault School transitions students from pure physical conditioning and rappelling into the technical and logistical demands of helicopter external load operations.

The course entails deep immersion into the principles, equipment, and sequencing required for safe sling load operations. Key topics covered include:

• Comprehensive knowledge of all standard sling load equipment, including A-22 cargo bags, various nets, and specialized hooks.

• The exact specifications and capabilities of primary Air Assault aircraft, such as the UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, and LUH-72 Lakota.

• The precise, seven-step inspection sequence that must be flawlessly executed for every sling load.

• The proper preparation, rigging, and inspection of common military loads, such as the M119 Howitzer, HMMWV, and standardized cargo trailers.

• Rigorous safety protocols for both hook-up teams and the inspection personnel on the ground.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE FINAL EXAM

The Phase 2 Final Exam is a combination of written and practical evaluations, with the practical phase being the critical filter for graduation.

Written Examination: Students must first pass a multiple-choice written exam. This test challenges their understanding of aircraft capabilities, sling load equipment specifications, and the regulatory requirements found in relevant Army publications. A minimum passing score of 70% is required.

Practical Examination (The Gauntlet): The practical exam is the core of Phase 2 and is often the leading cause of attrition. Students must inspect four distinct sling loads: a HMMWV, an M119 Howitzer, a cargo net, and an A-22 cargo bag.

During this hands-on test, students have exactly two minutes per load to inspect the rigging for deficiency. To pass, a candidate must successfully identify a specific number of critical deficiencies (often three) pre-installed on the loads, while failing to identify fewer than the maximum allowed 'missed deficiencies.' The order and speed of the seven-step inspection sequence must be perfect. Failing to execute the sequence in order or within the time limit results in automatic failure of that load and potentially the entire phase.

HOW TO STUDY AND EXAM CENTERS

Preparation for Phase 2 demands a strategic blend of intense memorization and physical practice.

Study Strategies:

• Sequence, Sequence, Sequence: The key to success is reflexive recall of the inspection sequence. Recite it daily, visualized with a physical object, until it is automatic.

• Master the Nomenclature: Know every piece of equipment by its exact military name and specifications.

• Physical Mock-ups: Utilize the 'Sling Load Pit' if available on your installation. If not, improvise with ropes, nets, and physical mock-ups of loads to simulate inspection under time pressure.

• Practice with Deficiencies: Use visual aids and study guides that show incorrect rigging. Challenge yourself to spot flaws rather than just verifying correct setup.

• Work with a Partner: Practice timing each other through inspections. A study partner is essential for mocking up loads and calling out deficiencies.

Exam Centers: The Air Assault Course and its associated exams are conducted primarily at:

• The Sabalauski Air Assault School (TSAAS), located at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

• The Army National Guard Warrior Training Center (WTC), which often hosts courses at various installations throughout the United States.

• Occasionally via Mobile Training Teams (MTTs) dispatched to units globally.

You must be in an active military status and hold a current physical to attend. Check with your unit training NCO or S-3 for slots and prerequisite physical training standards.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES FROM THE COURSE

Graduating from Air Assault School and earning the badge does not guarantee a new Job Series (MOS), but it unlocks critical roles and enhances career progression within the combat arms and logistical fields. Common opportunities include:

• Air Assault Instructor (at TSAAS or WTC)

• Sling Load Inspector (in any unit conducting air mobility operations)

• Sling Load Hook-up Team NCOIC

• Pathway to Pathfinder School

• Assignment to specialized specialized units (e.g., 101st Airborne Division)

• Enhanced selection for specialized operations and specialized leadership roles

Complete this course, and you become the invaluable "Air Assault Qualified" professional that command teams rely on during complex air insertion and rapid resupply missions. Get practicing today!